Nigerian Goalkeeping Legend Peter Rufai Dies at 61 After Cardiac Arrest

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The Nigerian football community is in mourning as one of its most iconic goalkeepers, Peter Rufai, has passed away at the age of 61. The former Super Eagles shot-stopper died in Lagos on July 3, 2025, following a prolonged illness that resulted in cardiac arrest.

Rufai, affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana,” was a towering figure in Nigerian football history. He was best known for leading Nigeria to victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and playing a crucial role in the country’s first two FIFA World Cup appearances in 1994 and 1998.

According to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the news of his death came as a painful shock. NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi expressed sorrow and surprise:

“We did not even know that he had been ill. His death is a big loss to Nigerian football.”

Tributes have been pouring in from across the country and the global football scene.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described Rufai as a “patriotic sportsman whose exploits inspired a generation.” He praised the late goalkeeper’s post-retirement efforts through the Staruf Football Academy, where Rufai mentored and trained young talent.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined in mourning, calling Rufai’s death “a profound loss to the global football community.”
Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa tweeted, “Rest in peace to a true giant of Nigerian football. Thank you for the memories.”

Rufai earned 65 international caps for Nigeria and played club football in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain—most notably for Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF. Known for his agility, leadership, and composure under pressure, he was often the last line of defense during some of Nigeria’s most memorable football moments.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Rufai was a prince of Idimu in Lagos and one of the few African footballers to successfully combine sports with royal lineage and post-career leadership in sports development.

He is survived by his family, fans, and an enduring legacy in African football.

Rufai’s passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. His life and career continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across Nigeria and beyond.

Rest in Peace, Dodo Mayana.